Master of Science in Nursing (8 Specializations)
Pursue Your Master of Science in Nursing Online!
With the online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at American Sentinel College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Post University, you could pursue your degree goals while continuing to provide quality patient care. In addition to the convenience of online courses, this flexible Master of Science in Nursing program offers several specializations to tailor your degree to your future goals in areas of nursing education, leadership and management, infection prevention and control, case management, informatics, and advanced practice nursing. Plus, practice experiences are built into the courses for the opportunity to apply online class learnings to real-world situations.
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) Programmatic Accreditation
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and master’s degree program in nursing at Post University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.
The Master of Science in Nursing Online Program at a Glance
Flexible Online Classes
Monthly Start Dates
36-54 Credit Hours
3 Nurse Practitioner (NP) Specializations
5 Non-NP Specializations
Practice-Focused Curriculum for Real-World Skills
The curriculum for this program is grounded in advanced nursing concepts for improving healthcare, creating quality patient outcomes, and fostering strategic change in the healthcare delivery system. Online coursework provides learning opportunities to gain practical insights into evidence-based practice, quality improvement, nursing informatics, and patient safety.
Plus, our nursing courses are designed and taught by nursing professionals with the knowledge and experience needed to provide an effective understanding of course material and the healthcare industry overall.
MS in Nursing Specializations
Once you complete the core coursework covering leadership, contemporary healthcare issues, improving healthcare practices for better patient outcomes, and more, you will customize your degree to your future goals with one of these relevant specializations:
Online MSN Degree Learning Flexibility
At Post University, we offer the traditional term-based learning modality for each of our online MSN specializations, including the three nurse practitioner specializations. In addition, we offer the competency-based SIMPath® learning modality for those who choose to pursue one of our non-NP Master of Science in Nursing online programs.
Term Based (All Specializations)
- 100% online classes
- 8-week terms
- Monthly class start dates
- Consistent due dates
- Take one class at a time
SIMPath® (Non-NP Specializations Only)
- 100% online classes
- 16-week semesters
- Monthly class start dates
- Self-paced format
- Enroll in as many courses as your schedule permits*
*Students may add additional courses through the twelfth (12th) week of the term. Any courses that remain unfinished must be repeated. Students who choose the SIMPath® option could complete their program in as little as two semesters.
State Authorization, Licensure, and Disclosures
While the Master of Science in Nursing (Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializations) is not designed to fulfill licensure requirements in an individual state, the program may be used to partially fulfill licensure requirements.
Post University assists in researching and providing information regarding licensure; however, each state has different requirements for such licensure outside of the required education. Such state requirements may include licensure exams, background checks, certain work experience, and more. It is ultimately the responsibility of each student to manage their own licensure process and to ensure that all requirements are met in order for the student to obtain licensure. Post University does not speak on behalf of any licensing board or body and does not guarantee licensure. Requirements for licensure are subject to change without notice.
The table at the following link shows whether Post University, with completion of the appropriate curriculum, does or does not fulfill the educational requirements for a specific license:
Curriculum, Course Descriptions, & Program Outcomes
Please see the University Catalog for the online MSN program’s full curriculum with course descriptions and program outcomes.
MSN Online Admissions Requirements
View the full list of the Nursing Admissions Requirements
Our admissions team is available to walk you through the application process and answer any questions on the online MSN degree program requirements. Contact us to learn more!
Tuition & Payment Options
View the Tuition and Fees section for information on the online MSN degree program costs.
We offer several funding options as you pursue your education. Please see the Scholarships and Other Ways to Save section to learn more about our:
- External Scholarships
- Nursing Tuition Reductions
- Education Partnership Program Tuition Reduction
- Post Eagle Program (Military)
- Payment Plans
- And more!
What Our Students Are Saying
“Going to Post University for my master’s degree changed the impact I can have on my family, my community, and the entire field of nursing.” –Ash Lee Hicks
The first assignment in her Post University Master’s Degree course inspired Ash Lee Hicks – a practicing nurse with over a decade of experience – to tackle a big community health issue.
Watch the video to learn more about Ash Lee’s amazing story.
Pursue Your MSN Program Online at Post!
At Post University, we are committed to your success. From day one, a student success advisor will be there to answer your questions and guide you from registration to graduation day for your Master of Science in Nursing online program. As you work toward fulfilling your degree dreams and building the skills to achieve your goals, we will be with you every step of the way.
Ready to make a difference for your patients and your future? Contact us to learn more about an online MSN degree with eight career-relevant specializations to choose from.
Master of Science in Nursing FAQ’s
What is an MSN degree?
An MSN, or Master of Science in Nursing, is a graduate-level nursing degree that provides advanced education and specialized training to registered nurses (RNs) or nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). It offers opportunities for nurses to specialize in various areas of nursing practice, leadership, education, or research.
What jobs could I pursue with an MSN?
An MSN, or Master of Science in Nursing, could help you build the skills applicable to a wide range of advanced nursing career opportunities. Depending on your specialization, you could study areas like infection prevention and control, case management, informatics, education, management and organizational leadership, adult gerontology primary care, psychiatric and mental health, and family practice. These specializations span clinical practice, leadership, education, and research within the field of nursing.
Is an MSN a nurse practitioner?
An MSN, or Master of Science in Nursing, is the educational degree that many nurse practitioners (NPs) pursue. NPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who hold an MSN or higher degree and have completed specialized training to provide primary and specialty healthcare services. So, while not all MSN graduates become nurse practitioners, the MSN is the educational pathway commonly followed by those seeking to become NPs. Becoming an NP requires state licensure, and there are requirements for licensure outside of education.
How long does it take to achieve a Master’s in Nursing Science?
Earning a Master’s in Nursing Science typically takes 1.5 to 3 years, depending on factors like program format (full-time or part-time) and specific curriculum requirements. Post University’s Online MSN program requires 36 – 54 credit hours, depending on which specialization you choose.
Can I pursue an MSN online?
Yes, many nursing schools offer online MSN programs. Post University’s online MSN program is available with multiple specializations and offers flexible online classes available in two different tracks; term-based and competency-based, with individualized practice experiences.
What is a competency-based or self-paced MSN program?
A competency-based or self-paced MSN program allows students to progress through coursework at their own speed based on their mastery of specific skills and knowledge areas. Instead of traditional fixed timelines, students advance as they demonstrate proficiency in predetermined competencies. This flexible learning approach accommodates varying student abilities and prior knowledge, offering a more personalized and adaptable educational experience.
Is it hard to obtain an MSN?
The difficulty of obtaining a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can vary from person to person. It depends on factors like your prior nursing experience, academic background, time commitment, and the specific program you choose. MSN programs can be challenging due to the advanced coursework, but with dedication and support, many individuals find it achievable. Success in obtaining an MSN is more about commitment and effort than inherent difficulty, and numerous nurses pursue and complete these programs successfully to build new skills along their career path.